RSM US LLP Names Ernest “E.J.” Nedder Chief Strategy Officer; Tony Urban Named National Tax Leader

CHICAGO – (January 4, 2023) – RSM US LLP (“RSM”) – the nation’s leading provider of audit, tax and consulting services focused on the middle market – has named Ernest “E.J.” Nedder as the firm’s chief strategy officer. In his new role, Nedder will drive RSM’s strategic vision and accelerate RSM’s transformation to become a digital firm providing assurance, tax and consulting services.

Nedder, previously RSM’s national tax leader, succeeds Jeff Johannesen, who will continue leading RSM’s office of transition. Tony Urban is succeeding Nedder as the firm’s national tax leader. All roles are effective as of January 1, 2023.

“Our strategic vision to lead the middle market and instill confidence in a world of change has never been more crucial for RSM than it is today,” said RSM US LLP Managing Partner & CEO Brian Becker. “E.J. is bringing his experience, vision and leadership to build on Jeff’s strong legacy and further establish RSM’s position as a compelling, digital and globally focused organization ready to meet the evolving needs of our clients and our people.

“Tony Urban is likewise uniquely qualified for his new position. His deep knowledge of tax policy and drive to innovate and deliver exceptional RSM experiences will ensure the continued expansion of our tax-focused services and industry data-driven insights, helping clients make informed business decisions while creating new career growth opportunities for our tax professionals.”

As chief strategy officer, Nedder will lead the development and execution of RSM’s enterprise strategy, working with leaders from across the firm’s lines of business, industries and channels. He will oversee the research and analysis of industry and competitive trends to identify market opportunities and strategic areas of interest, focusing extensively on digital transformation for RSM and the firm’s clients.

“I am thrilled to take on the role of chief strategy officer at this exciting time in RSM’s history,” said Nedder. “We are proud of the strong position we have established as the first-choice advisor to middle market leaders globally. We are committed to helping our clients and talent thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world, and doing so will require digital transformation, innovation and solid execution of our strategy. I know we will do all of this and more to be compelling and sought after for the great experiences we create for those who work with us.”

Nedder brings more than 26 years advising clients and 16 years of leadership experience to this role, having most recently served as RSM’s national tax leader. Previously Nedder served as the firm’s tax consulting leader and Northeast region tax practice leader. He also served on the RSM US LLP Board of Directors for two terms, including serving as chair in 2017-18, and is an active participant in the firm’s Family First employee network group and a member of RSM’s African American and Canadian Excellence Board of Advisors. Nedder is a member of the AICPA and New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, as well as a member of the American Bar Association and New York State Bar Association. He holds a Bachelor of Science in management from Tulane University’s A.B. Freeman School of Business and a Juris Doctor from New England Law School.

As RSM US LLP national tax leader, Urban will oversee execution of the firm’s tax strategy in the United States and Canada and serve as a member of the firm’s executive leadership team.

“It’s an honor to take on the tax leadership role at such an important time in RSM’s history,” said Urban. “I’m proud to lead the tax team as we continue our digital transformation journey, expand our service offerings and help drive RSM’s unrivaled, inclusive culture and talent experience. Executing on these priorities will enable us to continue to differentiate RSM in the marketplace and meet the diverse and complex needs of the middle market.”

Urban most recently served as the firm’s tax consulting leader and earlier as national state and local tax leader. He has also previously served as tax location leader in Omaha and leader of the firm’s Central region industrials tax practice. Urban served a term on the RSM US LLP Board of Directors and is an active member of the STAR employee network group—promoting women’s leadership both at RSM and in his local community. He is also passionate about supporting and mentoring underserved youth, as evidenced by his board roles with the SAVE Program (president) and TeamMates (treasurer). Additionally, Urban is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, a board member of Midland University and a board member and treasurer of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science in accounting and economics from Midland University and a Juris Doctor from University of Nebraska – Lincoln.